The journey from the infamous "Ugly Sonic" trailer of 2019 has been quite a ride. While the first Sonic film wasn't a perfect video game adaptation, it launched a successful franchise starring Ben Schwartz as Sonic, Jim Carrey as Dr. Robotnik, and, in the latest installment, Keanu Reeves as Shadow.
IGN's review of Sonic the Hedgehog 3 praises its improved humor, visuals, and Jim Carrey's standout performance, deeming it superior to its predecessors. And the franchise's growth continues; Sonic the Hedgehog 4 is already slated for a 2027 release.
Planning to catch the new Sonic movie? Here's a comprehensive guide to its release:
How to Watch Sonic 3: Theatrical, Digital, and Physical Release
Theatrical Release: Sonic the Hedgehog 3 is currently playing in theaters. Check local listings at major theater websites:
Fandango, AMC Theaters, Cinemark Theaters, Regal Theaters
Digital Release:
Sonic the Hedgehog 3 is available digitally for rent or purchase on platforms such as Prime Video. Paramount+ will be the exclusive streaming home for Sonic 3, unlike previous films which appeared on Netflix or Disney+. While a precise date isn't confirmed, following the release patterns of Sonic the Hedgehog 2 and other Paramount 2024 releases (Smile 2 and A Quiet Place: Day One), a Paramount+ release is anticipated by mid-February 2025.
Physical Release:
A 4K steelbook edition of Sonic the Hedgehog 3 is available for pre-order on Amazon, although a specific release date remains unannounced. Amazon's pre-order price guarantee offers some assurance.
Synopsis of Sonic the Hedgehog 3:
This installment explores the origins of Shadow the Hedgehog, previously seen in Sonic Adventure 2 and Sonic x Shadow Generations. The official synopsis reads: Sonic, Knuckles, and Tails team up to confront Shadow, a formidable new foe with unprecedented powers. Overmatched, they forge an unlikely alliance to defeat Shadow and safeguard the planet.
How to Watch Sonic 1 and Sonic 2:
Blu-ray copies of the first two Sonic films are readily available, and digital streaming options are plentiful. Both films stream on Hulu and Paramount+. Sonic the Hedgehog is also available on Peacock and Prime Video. Paramount+ hosts many other Sonic adaptations, including the 1990s cartoon series and this year's Knuckles short.
Sonic the Hedgehog 1: Hulu, Paramount+, Peacock, Prime Video Sonic the Hedgehog 2: Hulu, Paramount+, Prime Video
Post-Credits Scene:
Yes! Sonic 3 features both mid- and post-credits scenes, details of which leaked prior to the film's release. Proceed with caution if you wish to avoid spoilers.
Cast of Sonic the Hedgehog 3:
Directed by Jeff Fowler and written by Patrick Casey, Josh Miller, and John Wittington, Sonic the Hedgehog 3 stars:
- Ben Schwartz as Sonic the Hedgehog
- Colleen O'Shaughnessey as Tails
- Idris Elba as Knuckles
- Keanu Reeves as Shadow the Hedgehog
- Jim Carrey as Dr. Robotnik (and Gerald Robotnik)
- James Marsden as Tom Wachowski
- Tika Sumpter as Maddie Wachowski
- Krysten Ritter as Director Rockwell
- Natasha Rothwell as Rachel
- Lee Majdoub as Agent Stone
- Alyla Browne as Maria
- Shemar Moore as Randall Handel
- Adam Pally as Wade Whipple
Rating and Runtime:
Sonic the Hedgehog 3 is rated PG for action, some violence, rude humor, thematic elements, and mild language. The runtime is 1 hour and 50 minutes.